AP1 M 7.2: Physiology of the Integumentary System: Repair

Question 1

cell

Answer 1

The smallest unit of life is a cell. Cells come together to form tissues.

Question 2

Tissues

Answer 2

Tissues are comprised of cells, which are similar in structure and function.

Question 3

matrix

Answer 3

Tissues are comprised of cells and matrix. Matrix is also called extracellular material, made up of ground substance (extracellular fluid), protein, and collagen fibers. When the skin is damaged, both tissue and matrix need to be repaired.

Question 4

Tissue Repair

Answer 4

In the case of tissue damage, the body needs to respond quickly to prevent blood loss in and microorganisms from entering the bloodstream. Tissues, such as the skin, can be repaired by the body through a multi-step process.
Blood platelets from the broken blood vessel start to accumulate in the area where the tissue was damaged, forming a clot, secreting a mesh-like substance around it to prevent blood loss

Question 5

Mast cells

Answer 5

Mast cells release histamine, a chemical that helps to dilate blood vessels to bring increased blood and nutrients to the injured area. Histamines help to initiate a local inflammatory response, which signals other cells in the area to help remove foreign pathogens.

Question 6

Remodeling

Answer 6

Remodeling is the final phase of wound healing where the tissue matures, and the cells begin to take on their original functions. If the wound is too deep in the tissue, a scar forms and some of the original function of the tissue is lost.

Question 6

scar

Answer 6

A scar is an overgrowth of the fibrous connective tissue that cannot be fully replaced by the original tissue.

Question 7

Burns

Answer 7

One of the ways that the skin can be injured is through a burn. Burns are classified by the severity of the burn.

Question 8

First degree burns

Answer 8

First degree burns, also called superficial burns, only damage the epidermis layer of the skin. The burned area becomes dry, red, and painful, without blistering. One example of a first-degree burn is a mild sunburn that does not blister.

Question 9

Second-degree burns

Answer 9

Second-degree burns, also called partial thickness burns, damage the epidermis and part of the dermis layers of the skin. The burn turns red and forms blisters, becoming painful and swollen. The dermis has many sensory organs embedded within it, so damage to the dermis layer is painful.

Question 10

Third-degree burns

Answer 10

Third-degree burns, also called full thickness burns, damage the epidermis, entire dermis, and may extend slightly into the subcutaneous layer of the skin. The injured skin typically looks white and may even have a “charred” appearance. The extensive damage to the dermis layer of the skin makes third degree burns extremely painful.

Question 11

Fourth-degree burns

Answer 11

Fourth-degree burns damage the epidermis, dermis, hypodermis, and underlying tissue such as muscle or bone. Because the nerve endings are destroyed, there is no sensation in the affected burn area.

Question 12

Skin grafting

Answer 12

Burns heal in the same manner as other skin injuries. However, a skin graft may be necessary if the skin has been too severely damaged or if the burn covers a large surface area. Skin grafting is a treatment where healthy skin is taken from a person’s own body and grafted on top of the damaged area. Skin grafting decreases recovery time and prevents infection.